Abstract: An improved synthetic pad is used in sports equipment in a three-tiered system. A front visible layer, called a cosmetic component layer, is made to the taste and color of a player or a team. A second component is a backing pad layer. The third and novel component of the present invention is a foam insert layer of about one inch thickness. A pocket provided on the rear of the cosmetic component layer or on the front of the backing pad layer may be provided for receipt of the foam insert layer. The foam insert layer is made and structured in such a way that it provides a choice of rebound possibilities for a player. The foam insert layer may be homogeneous, or lacerated on one side to a depth of about 1/2 inch in a predetermined pattern. The laceration may be performed by either a blade or with a hot wire or with a thermosetting foam molded to its final shape.

Abstract: Sports player protective equipment having a system of protective padding members, and of a scale-type configuration having one section of protective padding overlapping an adjacent section of protective padding. The padding sections overlap one another and include a sliding extension member, the end of which is secured to an approximate midsection of an adjacent padding section so as to allow sliding movement of one padding section relative to an adjacent padding section. This sliding movement allows for expansion, contraction and rotation of the entire arm protective padding, which provides improved freedom of movement with greatly increased capability of bending of an arm. Advantageously, the arm protective padding sections are capable of extension, contraction and rotation with respect to each other without diminishing protective capability. Therefore, a single chest protector fits different sizes of players due to the extension and contraction capabilities of the arms.

Abstract: The disclosure herein describes a goal-keeper pad which comprises a heavily padded body defining an upper thigh section, an intermediate leg section and a lower foot section. The outer coverings in the lower rear areas of the leg section and of the foot section have cut-out portions which are covered with an accordion-like joint sewn to the coverings. The joint is formed of an arrangement of bands and pieces of material interconnected and folded together by sewing, the band material being stretchable, the pieces of material being highly resistant.